Syosset Advance (8/30/24)

Rotary provides backpacks, school supplies

HJRC Rotarian Thomas Howell, Sue Powell, volunteer, Sarah Grace Foundation for Children with Cancer; HJRC President Donna Rivera-Downey, Rotary volunteer Linda Morales and HJRC Rotarian Robert Mancino with donation of school supplies at Cohen Children’s Medical Center

The Hicksville-Jericho Rotary Club in partnership with the Sarah Grace Foundation for Children with Care, Inc. delivered 48 new back packs and much needed school sup-

plies to Stony Brook Cancer Center and Cohen Children’s Medical Center.

“Families with children with cancer often struggle financially to

provide everyday items like school supplies while dealing with the high cost of medical care for their children.” said Donna Rivera Downey,

See page 13

Jericho superintendent to retire

On August 26, as the Jericho School District staff returned for Superintendent’s Conference Day, Superintendent Hank Grishman announced that he will be retiring at the end of this school year.

Hank Grishman began his

career in education as an elementary teacher and a middle school mathematics teacher and held posts as an elementary and a middle school principal before serving as a superintendent. He is entering his 30th year as the superintendent of the Jericho School District and is currently

the longest serving superintendent in New York State. His first administrative position was as an elementary school principal in Yonkers, where he grew up.

Since 1978, Mr. Grishman served as superintendent of four school districts before taking his post in

See page 10

A Syosset man shot and killed three of his siblings and his niece before turning the gun on himself, according to the Nassau County Police Department.

Police say that on Sunday, August 25th at 11:58 a.m. they were called to a Wyoming Avenue home due to reports of gunshots. There they discovered the body of Joseph Delucia, 59, in a lawn chair outside the home, where he apparently shot himself. Inside the home, officers discovered four other victims: Joanne Kearns, sister of the shooter, 69, of Tampa, Florida; Frank Delucia, brother of the shooter, 64, of Durham, North Carolina; Tina Hammond, sister of the shooter, 64, of East Patchogue, New York; Victoria Hammond, niece of the shooter, 30, of East Patchogue, New York Police say Joseph Delucia shot the four victims before turning the gun on himself.

Reportedly, the family members had gathered at the home, which had been owned by their late mother, Theresa Delucia, who had passed away recently. According to Nassau County Police Capt. Stephen Fitzpatrick, Joseph Delucia, who had lived with his mother, may have been concerned that her home was to be sold, and that he would not have a place to stay.

Five killed in Syosset murders/suicide Syosset schools prepare for year, referendum

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At the Syosset Central School District Board of Education meeting on Monday, August 26, Superintendent Dr. Thomas Rogers provided updates on summer activities and projects. The first day of school is Tuesday, September 3.

Dr. Rogers reported that the district made significant progress on capital and building projects. He praised Supervisor of School Facilities and Operations Severino Fasulo, Maintenance Supervisor Michael Beckerman, and Executive Director of Operations Greg Hamilton for their dedication, noting that some projects initially intended for contractors were completed by staff instead.

“There were a couple of projects we received bids on but

See page 12

Shed the Meds event planned for Sept. 24

Nassau County Legislature Deputy Minority Leader Arnold W. Drucker (DPlainview, left) greets a resident dropping off items at last year's Shed the Meds program.

Nassau County Legislature

Deputy Minority Leader

Arnold W. Drucker (DPlainview), together with the Nassau County Police Department’s Second Precinct will host a “Shed The Meds” event at the Syosset Public Library on Tuesday, Sept. 24.

From 5 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., residents will have the opportunity to securely dispose of unwanted and/ or expired prescription medications and patches, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, drug samples and pet medications at the library under the supervision of Second Precinct officers. Please note that needles/ sharps, aerosol cans, thermometers, ointments, (liquid or lotion), hydrogen peroxide, inhalers, biohazardous

materials and/or medications from business will not be accepted.

“Through our ongoing partnership with the Second Precinct, my office’s Shed the Meds events provide Nassau residents with convenient opportunities to clear their medicine cabinets in a way that protects the environment and prevents drug abuse and misuse in our community,” Deputy Minority Leader Drucker said. “If you have unwanted or expired medicine to dispose of, I strongly encourage you to join us on September 24 and avail yourself of this vital service.”

Residents can contact the Second Precinct at 516-573-6200 or Deputy Minority Leader Drucker’s office at 516-571-6216 with questions.

Man shot in face in Syosset

A Syosset man was shot in the face during an incident on Tuesday, August 20th on Underhill Boulevard in Syosset.

According to Nassau County Police, officers responded to 225 Underhill Boulevard at 11:10 a.m. where they found a 34-year-old male with a gunshot wound to the face. The victim was

transported to a nearby hospital and was listed in stable condition.

The investigation is ongoing. Detectives request anyone with information regarding the above listed incident to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS or call 911. All callers will remain anonymous.

Bus trip to Wind Creek Casino

Catholic Daughters of the Americas will be hosting a bus trip to Wind Creek Casino in Bethlehem, PA, on Tuesday, September 24. Cost of $55 per person includes the driver’s tip. Give back: $35 slot play.

Please arrive at 8:30 a.m. Return will be approximately 8:30 p.m. Parking at 999 So. Oyster Bay Road (dead end).

For reservations, please call Barbara at (516) 935-5576. Please make checks payable to “CDA”.

Teachers aide job fair in Hicksville

Hicksville Public Schools is hosting a teacher aide job fair for the 2024–25 school year on Sept. 5, from 11 a.m.–1 p.m., in the district’s Administration

Building, located at 200 Division Ave. Interested individuals are required to bring a resume to apply.

Mercy League seeks women bowlers

The Mercy Ladies Bowling League is looking for individual women bowlers or teams of four women bowlers for their non-cash league.

The fee is $16 for 3 games, which includes shoes and ball, and an end of season luncheon.

The league begins on September 6 and bowls on Fridays at 9:45 a.m. at Syosset Lanes. Let us help you promote your local business! We'll personally create a customized ad campaign and

Alexander’s Angels to host annual LI Buddy Walk

Alexander’s Angels will be holding its 18th annual L.I. Buddy Walk on Saturday, October 5th at Tanner Park in Copiague from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. This highly anticipated event unites board members, teams, and sponsors in a celebration of community and inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome.

The walk will commence at noon, following the national anthem sung by John Kilduff, a talented individual with Down syndrome. The Civil Air Patrol Lt. Quentin Roosevelt Cadet Squadron NY-288, longtime supporters of Alexander’s Angels, will lead the walk, followed by teams carrying signs and banners. The event underscores the importance of awareness, inclusion, and respect for people with Down syndrome.

Beyond the one-mile walk, participants can enjoy a variety of activities. Highlights include DJ Chris, sponsored by East Neck Insurance, performances by the ACDS Zumba team, and appearances by Star Wars characters from the 501st Legion Empire City Garrison and Rebel Legion’s Echo Base. Teams will also assist in various roles, including registration, raffles, arts & crafts, and a boutique featuring handmade items. The Down syndrome community and local school groups will offer addition-

al activities, while collaborating organizations will provide information on their services. For more details, visit Alexander’s Angels.

The Buddy Walk, established in 1997 by the National Down Syndrome

Society, has been coordinated on Long Island by Alexander’s Angels since 2007. Founded in Jericho by the family and friends of Alexander Gomez-Nieto, the all-volunteer 501(c)(3) organization is dedicated to raising awareness

and funds for advocacy, services, and research related to Down syndrome through events like the Buddy Walk® and World Down Syndrome Day celebrations.

Alexander’s Angels, which is headquartered in Jericho, will be holding its 18th annual Buddy Walk on October 5. The Walk raises funds and awareness for people with Down syndrome.

Levittown Swimming Association Championships

On August 18th New York State Senator attended the Levittown Swimming Association Championship meet to support our local swimmers and celebrate another successful summer of swimming. Senator Rhoads thanked the LSA Board, lifeguards, coaches, timers, and volunteers, who play a vital role in making LSA and Levittown a truly exceptional place to live.

Upcoming Events at the Jericho Public Library

Tuesday, September 3

9:30 a.m.: IN-PERSON: Adult Walking Club (Weather Permitting) -All levels, all abilities are welcome. Join us for a 45 minute walk around the neighborhood. It’s an opportunity to get some exercise, meet new people, spend time with a friend and enjoy some conversation.

Thursday, September 5

7:00 p.m.: Books Before Bedtime (Ages 4–8) - Children will enjoy a selection of stories.

Friday, September 6

10:00 a.m.: The Ultimate Brain Teaser Stations Experience - Get ready to spice up your Fridays with a

brain workout bonanza! Challenge your mind with puzzles, games, and endless fun! No registration required!

4:00 p.m.: Lego Buddies (Grades 1 to 6) - Build a Lego creation with the help of teen volunteers. Teens will assist kids in creating Lego structures that display their creativity and ingenuity.

4:00 p.m.: Teen Community Service Event: Lego Buddies - Earn 1 hour of community service credit helping younger children make Lego masterpieces with our large collection of Lego pieces.

Register for all events at https:// www.jericholibrary.org/events/month Non-residents may register beginning 2 weeks before each program.

This Week at the

Syosset Public Library

Wednesday, September 4, at 1:00 p.m.

Wire Wrapped Sea Glass Pendant Art Class (IN-PERSON)

Presenter: Donna Irvine, jewelry designer and teaching artist Learn wire wrapping techniques to make a sea glass pendant. The pendant can be used as jewelry, as a keychain, a purse charm or decoration. You will choose your own wire color and glass color to customize your pendant. Fee: $3. Registration needed. Adults only. Register at syossetlibrary.org.

Thursday, September 5, at 2:00 p.m. Supreme Court in Review, Part 1

(IN-PERSON)

Presenter: James Coll, adjunct professor of American and Constitutional history, Nassau Community College and Hofstra University, and retired NYPD detective

This lecture will focus on selected cases and controversies that came before the justices during the court term from October 2023 to June 2024. No registration needed.

Friday, September 6, at 2:00 p.m. Friday Movie at the Library (IN-PERSON)

Join us for an afternoon movie at the library. Check our website for the movie that will be shown. Go to syossetlibrary.org.

Go Gold with the Sarah Grace Foundation

Wear a gold ribbon during September as a symbol of childhood cancer awareness.

The buses are rolling and soon children will be returning to their classrooms. Children with cancer are unable to attend school due to severely compromised immune systems, so they will be home schooled or tutored in-patient. Throughout the summer the Sarah Grace Foundation for Children With Cancer has been sending crafts and activities to local pediatric cancer centers and recently provided new backpacks and school supplies to seven  pediatric cancer centers as part of their ‘back to school’ program. Foundation efforts were made possible through the collection of school supplies by Marcie and her team at Ray Leventhal Clothing in Plainview, the Hicksville Chamber of Commerce and by a generous donation from the Hicksville-Jericho Rotary Club.

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and The Sarah Grace Foundation for Children With Cancer is ensuring that everyone knows how they can support the Foundation mission and these children. This year thanks to a generous donation from

the Build-A-Bear Foundation, the Sarah Grace Foundation has distributed 200 brand-new furry friends to the children along with cards and gold ribbon pins.

A gold ribbon is the worldwide symbol of childhood cancer awareness, and the Foundation is asking everyone to “Go Gold for Our Children” and wear a gold ribbon during the month of September. You can order your own ribbon on the Foundation website at www.thesarahgracefoundation.org/ shop-donate/

Your donation directly supports the programs the Foundation sponsors to support children and their families, such as their hospital Book Carts, Chemo Duck, The Bead Program and more.

As an all-volunteer charity, the Foundation has worked with thousands of children and their families providing numerous programs to help combat the struggles of this horrific disease and provide comfort and support to these children and their families.

“Every year, over 4,000 children die from cancer,” said Matt Weippert, Executive Director of the Foundation. “Roughly 46 children are diagnosed every day. We are all too familiar with their struggle, and we’re committed to doing all we can to improve their quality of life.”

Over the last year, the Foundation continued to support families with reimbursement for grocery expenses, utilities, patient co-pays, funeral expenses as well as toys and games to provide some normalcy to the children who ask only to be children, not patients in a hospital.

As the weather gets cooler, the volunteers at the Sarah Grace Foundation are looking ahead to other programs, including their Halloween Trick or Treat goodie bags; holiday toy drive and annual Holiday Extravaganza raffle, where you can purchase tickets for a chance to win various prizes every day of the month of November.

“This year has been difficult for everyone, but especially so for families who were already struggling,” said Weippert. “Your support means the world to the families we serve and as we look ahead to the holidays and

The Sarah Grace Foundation received a donation of 200 brand-new furry friends from the Build-a-Bear Foundation.

our plans for 2025 we hope to be able to continue Sarah’s mission that has guided us for more than 20 years. It is a recognition of Sarah’s loss and a tribute to her memory”

For more information on The Sarah Grace Foundation please call (516) 4339745 or visit the Foundation’s website at www.TheSarahGraceFoundation.

org. Donations or requests for information may be sent to The Sarah Grace Foundation at 17 E. Old Country Road, Unit B, PMB 202, Hicksville, NY 11801. Anyone who wishes to volunteer or provide support to the Foundation in any way may also email matt.weippert@ thesarahgracefoundation.org

Recent Real Estate Sales in Syosset and Jericho

21 Sagamore Way N, Jericho

4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 1 half bath Sold on: 08/8/2024

Sold price: $1,828,000

19 Andover Drive, Syosset

51 Middle Lane, Jericho

4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath

on 08/20/2024

Sold price: $1,320,000

Type: Single family Schools: Jericho

4 Willets Lane, Syosset

40 Elm Street, Jackson, New Jersey

Mother/Daughter Home with 2 Full Kitchens. Large 11 room Bi-Level on .75 acres. Features 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, Formal Living Room and Dining Room, Family Room with Brick Fireplace, Laundry room w/cabinets and countertops. All appliances included (2 DW’s, 2 Elec Ranges, 2 Refr’s, Washer/Dryer).

Lower-level ceramic tiled floors throughout, upper level beautiful oak wood floors throughout. Spacious detached garage, work bench + lots of storage space. 2 patios, double wide driveway to easily accommodate 6+ vehicles.

Type: Single family Schools: Jericho

The information about these homes and the photos were obtained through the Multiple Listing Services of Long Island. The homes presented were selected based solely on the fact that they were recently sold

3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath Sold on 08/27/2024

Sold price: $995,000

Type: Single family Schools: Syosset

3 bedrooms, 1 full bath Sold on 08/26/2024

Sold price: $900,000

Type: Single family Schools: Syosset

BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN

NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE

presents

SATURDAY, AUGUST 31ST 7:00 PM-9:00 PM

Shelter to waive adoption fees during September

The Town of Oyster Bay’s Animal Shelter has announced that it will waive adoption fees throughout the month of September.

“I invite and encourage residents looking for a new pet, to check in with the Town’s Animal Shelter during the month of September, as general adoption fees will be waived. Our shelter staff has a wonderful reputation for providing great care to the pets housed there, and has a long history of uniting those looking for a fur-ever companion,” said Town Clerk Richard LaMarca.

During the month of September, the shelter will waive the general adoption fees of $80 per dog and $84 per cat.  All usual adoption services will be provided, including the spaying or neutering of the animal, vaccination and microchipping. Residents interested in viewing the animals available for adoption can call the shelter to make an appointment, or visit www.oysterbaytown.com.

“In addition to free adoption month, the Town will be hosting a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic at the Animal Shelter on September 14t from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. No reservations are neces-

sary,” said Clerk LaMarca. Microchip services will also be available for a $25 fee. “If a pet is ever lost, they can be taken to a vet clinic or animal shelter where they will be scanned for a microchip ID and returned to their rightful owner.”

The Town of Oyster Bay Animal Shelter is located at 150 Miller Place in Syosset. The shelter is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Residents interested in visiting the shelter can call to make an appointment. To view photos of some of the animals available for adoption, visit the Town’s website, www. oysterbaytown.com, visit the Town’s Facebook page, or call (516) 677-5784 for more information.

Once dogs reach four months of age, owners are required to obtain an annual dog license and verification tag. The general license fee is $15 for an unneutered or unspayed dog and $10 for a neutered or spayed dog. There is no fee for licensing a guide dog, hearing dog, service dog, war dog, detection dog or police dog. Fees for senior citizens are $5. To obtain an application for a dog license, please call Town Clerk Richard LaMarca’s office at (516) 624-6324.

One-stop

Passport Weekend

To help residents looking to obtain new passports, Oyster Bay Town Clerk Richard LaMarca announced that his office will offer a special onestop Passport Weekend on Saturday, September 14, and Sunday, September 15, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at both Town Hall North in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South in Massapequa.

of Birth, Naturalization Certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship.

• Proof of Identity –Naturalization Certificate, Valid Driver’s License (cannot have been issued or renewed in the last six months), Current Government ID (city, state or federal), Current Military ID (military and dependents).

Weather permitting, call 516-572-0200 for up-to-date information.

Before the event, be sure to check out Nassau’s top-notch Restaurants, Golf Courses, Beaches and Shopping. Nassau is back and open for business!

NASSAU

“Residents looking to apply for a new passport are invited to visit Town Hall during Passport Weekend to receive assistance,” said Town Clerk LaMarca. “We can help you with organizing your documents, obtaining a photo and submitting the documents for approval.”

Requirements for applying for a passport include:

• One 2x2 color photograph with a clear view of the applicant’s face against a plain white or light colored background. Photos will also be available for $10 at both Town Halls North and South during Passport Weekend.

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship –Previously issued undamaged U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification

• This service does NOT apply to Adult Renewals unless your Passport is expired for 5+ years.

Town Clerk LaMarca has offices located at Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road in Massapequa.  Passport appointments are available Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and during this special Passport Weekend.  For appointments in Oyster Bay, please call (516) 624-6324.  For appointments in Massapequa, please call (516) 797-7962. For information on passport requirements and processing times, as well as instructions for passport renewals, visit www.travel.state.gov.

Jericho schools superintendent announces retirement

From page 1

Jericho in 1995. In June of 2025, he will have served 47 years as superintendent of schools in New York State.

During his almost 30 years as the educational leader of the Jericho School District, Jericho students and staff have won national awards, including National Merit Scholarships, Siemens and INTEL competitions, as well as various awards of distinction. The Jericho School District is consistently ranked as one of the best open enrollment schools in the United States in all of the top polls. Under his leadership, the district expanded course offerings, increased the number of co-curricular and athletic offerings, expanded the school day and the school year as well as, completed building upgrades and expansions totaling almost $100 million dollars. Furthermore, Jericho was one of the first districts in New York State to celebrate Lunar New Year, Diwali and EID.

Mr. Grishman was the 2012 New

York State School Superintendent of the Year. Other honors include the Outstanding Superintendent of the Year Award from the New York State Association of School Business Officials, Nassau BOCES Partners in Education Award, Educator of the Year from the Korean Parents Association of Long Island, NYSPHSAA, Section VIII Hall of Fame inductee, Distinguished Service from the NYS Athletic Administrators Association, Distinguished Service from the Council of Administrators, Jericho Athletic Association’s Community Service Award, National School Development Council’s Cooperative Leadership Award and Friend of Education from NYSUT.

Mr. Grishman is the past president and past member of the Executive Committee of the NYS Council of School Superintendents, chair of the NYSCOSS Distinguished Service Committee; past president and officer of the Executive Committee for the Leadership for Educational Achievement Foundation, Inc,

past president and current member of the Executive Committee of SCOPE, member of the NYS Public High School Athletic Association Central Committee, chair of NYSPHSAA Section VIII Superintendent’s Board, past member of the American Association of School Administrators Governing Board, and past president and current member of the Executive Committee of the Nassau County Council of School Superintendents.

Hank’s wife, Jill, is a retired teacher from Wantagh, having taught elementary grades, middle school English and Social Studies. Hank and Jill have two sons and five grandchildren, the Jericho son and his wife have three children, two of whom currently attend Jericho High School and one who graduated and is currently attending Binghamton University. His other son and his wife live in California and have two sons, an upcoming pilot for Sky West Airlines and a full time snowboarder.

LEGAL NOTICES

Superintendent Hank Grishman

Syosset schools prepare for school year, referendum

From page 1

we thought those bids were too high, so our own staff decided to take on that work themselves. They’ve completed that work really well, and I want to publicly acknowledge all the work they have done this summer,” he told the board.

One highlight was the new library at H.B. Thompson Middle School. Though some furniture was still pending, Dr. Rogers expressed confidence that students would find the new space warm and inviting.

“We are ready for the new school year and we’re excited to welcome our students back. For the most part it’s already arrived as many of our students are back on campus because fall sports teams started practices and they are participating with their friends,” Dr. Rogers said.

Teachers Learn About AI Integration

Syosset’s faculty participated in a professional development program, including a keynote by Carnegie Mel-

lon University Mathematics Professor Po-Shen Loh, an expert in Artificial Intelligence and coach of the U.S. Math Olympiad team.

In 2019, Po-Shen Loh received both the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers and the William H. and Frances S. Ryan Award.

Dr. Rogers shared that the professor’s address, titled “Teachers Will Literally Save the World,” emphasized that AI will enhance, not diminish, the importance of teachers.

“The title of his remarks for Tuesday (August 27th) is ‘Teachers Will Literally Save the World.’ If anyone thought that AI would render teachers less important, his conclusion is that it will make them more important,” Dr. Rogers said.

Dr. Rogers plans to share more details on the presentation at the next Board of Education meeting on September 16.

In other news, on August 26, district administrators met with local authorities to strengthen partnerships with the

Town of Oyster Bay.

The Board of Education also approved recommendations from the Committee on Special Education and the Committee on Preschool Special Education, which met multiple times over the summer.

Voting Machines for Referendum

The Syosset CSD Facilities Improvement Bond Vote will be held on Tuesday, October 1, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. at district schools. Information is available online at bond.syossetschools.org, with additional presentations scheduled at upcoming PTA and SEPTA meetings.

The school district also released a short video on the upgrades suggested for school district facilities, which is available on the Syosset Central School District Youtube channel.

All questions on the upcoming bond referendum can be directed to district administration at facilities@syossetschools.org

The board approved a resolution to rent voting machines from the Nassau

LEGAL NOTICES

County Board of Elections, including DS200 Scanners and AutoMark Ballot Marking Devices.

Before the approval, School Board member Jack Ostrick questioned the availability of Nassau County ballot machines which will also be needed for the upcoming general U.S. Presidential election on Election Day, November 5th.

“In the past there were some questions that we would not be able to get enough machines because of the upcoming November election. Are the machines going to arrive on our premises sooner than later? And is there any risk they could be held back by the county?” Ostrick asked.

District Clerk Kellyanne Moore said she has engaged the Nassau County Board of Elections in extensive conversations to make sure “every box is checked” in the district’s securing voting machines and paper ballot filing machines.

Dr. Rogers assured that the district

See page 13

LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Town of Oyster Bay   Zoning Board of Appeals

TOWN HALL, AUDREY AVENUE, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK  11771-1592

TELEPHONE:  (516) 624-6232 – FAX:  (516) 624-6149

RITA BYRNE, Chairwoman  –  LOIS SCHMITT, Vice Chairwoman   –  KATHLEEN MULLIGAN REBECCA M. ALESIA –ANDREW MONTELEONE – LISA CICCOLELLA – FLORESTANO GIRARDI

PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Section 246-12 of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the Town Hall Meeting Room, Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on SEPTEMBER 5, 2024, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals:

BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

APPEAL NO. 24-277       SYOSSET

PRADHEEP K. KILETI:  Variance to construct rear sunroom addition having less rear yard setback and exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters.

W/s/o Park Dr. E., 487.14 ft. S/o Cedar St., a/k/a 42 Park Drive E., Syosset, NY

APPEAL NO. 24-344       SYOSSET

SAURABH MEHTA:  (A) Variance to allow existing 8.25 ft. by 9.75 ft. addition having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters.  (B) Variance to allow existing 6 ft. high PVC fence exceeding maximum height across side/front yard (Candy Lane) than permitted by Ordinance.

SW/ cor. of Candy Ln. & Milton Ln., a/k/a 49 Candy Lane, Syosset, NY

APPEAL NO. 24-253       SYOSSET

SURESH VARADARAJAN:  (A) Variance to construct one story addition exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance.  (B) Variance to construct one story addition and two story addition exceeding maximum gross floor area than permitted by Ordinance.

E/s/o Holly Dr., 50 ft. S/o Griffin Ln., a/k/a 17 Holly Drive, Syosset, NY

AUGUST 26, 2024 BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK

Syosset schools prepare for school year, referendum

From page 12

is well-prepared for the referendum and expressed appreciation for the cooperation from the Nassau County Board of Elections.

“We did not place this on the board agenda until Ms. Moore confirmed with the County Board of Elections that the machines would be reserved for us. They were in the process of deciding timing because they do want to lock down the machines prior to November’s general election but the indication is they would not take

any such steps until well after our (October 1) referendum election was completed. This spared the district from having to rent much more expensive commercial machines,” he explained.

Equipment rentals include DS200 Scanner & Tabulators and AutoMark Ballot Marking Devices for $350 per machine, as well as $300 per PDF (paper) ballot filing machines and one for absentee ballot filing; Election Inspector training will be covered for $25 per inspector, per class.

Rotary provides backpacks,

From page 1

school supplies

president of the Hicksville-Jericho Rotary Club. “This project allows these children to have all new schools supplies without the additional financial burden to their families.”

“The Sarah Grace Foundation was humbled to partner with the Hicksville-Jericho Rotary Club on this project, helping to build community and a better quality of life for the children with cancer we serve. Children diagnosed with cancer, in most cases, do not share in the excitement of a new school year; new clothes, new books, new friends! Some are hospitalized, many are home schooled.” said Matthew J. Weippert, chairman of the Board of the Sarah Grace Foundation for Children with Cancer, Inc. New School Supplies help them feel like their friends or siblings at the start of the new school year.

“This great partnership utilized the resources of the Sarah Grace Foundation for Children with Cancer, Inc to reach the hospitals and the volunteers of the Rotary club to purchase, organize and deliver the school supplies.” said Donna Rivera-Downey. “This project was

supported by a grant from the Rotary Foundation and Rotary District 7255.”

Hicksville-Jericho Rotary is the first rotary club in Hicksville founded in 1951. Rotary brings together a global network of community leaders dedicated to tackling the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. It connects 1.4 million members from more than 35,000 Rotary clubs in almost every country in the world. Their service improves lives both locally and internationally, from helping those in need in their own communities to working toward a polio-free world. The Hicksville-Jericho Rotary Club meets on Thursdays at Trullo D’Oro in Hicksville. Visit Rotary.org for more information on how to join Rotary or contact Donna Rivera-Downey at 516-532-4566

The Sarah Grace Foundation For Children With Cancer, Inc.’, a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to improving the quality of life of children with cancer and to provide comfort and and support to the families of children suffering from cancer. For more information visit https:// thesarahgracefoundation.org/

Getting Married?

email editor@gcnews.com to put your engagement, wedding, or baby announcement in the paper

August 30, 2024

Planning a Family Safari in Africa? Go2Africa Expert Shares Her Tips

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

Families are increasingly looking for travel experiences that are enriching, inspiring, foster an appreciation for the natural and human world. Among the pinnacle family experiences is a trip to the Galapagos which I did with my children on the Galapagos Legend (GoGalapagos.com) and will do again as a multi-generational family once my grandkids are old enough, and an African safari, which is a much more formidable prospect to plan, especially when you have no prior experience in Africa or doing a safari.

Because of that, I really appreciated the recommendations from Go2Africa’s Maija De Rijk-Uys - recently recognized by Travel + Leisure as an A-List Specialist for family safaris in Eastern and Southern Africawho pulled from her own experiences taking her two kids to the bush in preparing these tips for parents traveling with kids and recommendations for the best family-friendly lodges to book.

Tips

for Planning

Family Safari Vacations

Give your family time to recover from long-haul travel: Families can benefit from splitting their trip between cities, camps, and beaches. Cities such as Cape Town offer many fun things to do as a family and the opportunity to recover from jet lag and adjust to new cultures and environments.

Opt for private vehicles when the budget affords: Some lodges insist on a private vehicle when traveling with young children, but where

Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya, is home to the last remaining northern white rhinos. Ol Pejeta Bush Camp welcomes children over 5 years old and offers a variety of child-friendly activities. (photo provided by Go2Africa).

they don’t, Go2Africa advises opting for one anyway. When using a private vehicle on game drives, families can dictate exactly how long they stay at each sighting and how long they’re out in the bush—which will really come in handy if your little one gets restless.

Design an Age Appropriate

Itinerary: A safari offers a variety of activities and experiences. Choosing the right ones based on children’s ages ensures fun and safety for the whole family.

Traveling With Children 5-14

Years: When traveling with children younger than 15, choosing a lodge that offers closed or private vehicles, a junior rangers program, and professional guides who enjoy sharing the wilderness with youngsters is best. Children under 15 will love the excitement of nature walks, learning basic tracking skills, picnics in the bush, and spending time at the beach.

Traveling With Teenagers 15-18:

Teens are mature enough to join parents for game drives in classic open safari vehicles and encounter the majestic mountain gorilla on gorilla treks in Uganda. If you have a sensitive teen, Go2Africa recommends discussing the possibility of witnessing dramatic predator-prey interactions you might see in the wild, especially in the Masai Mara and the Serengeti during the Great Wildebeest Migration. Your teen will come to understand that nature is all about balance, where hunters and prey are a necessary and normal part of the cycle of life.

Multi-Generational Families: East Africa offers something for every type of traveler, including hot-air balloon rides of the Masai Mara for older members and age-appropriate safari-themed programs for children. Best of all is sharing the experience together, bonding and building life-

GOING PLACES NEAR AND FAR

time memories.

Work with an Expert, an African Safari Expert: Navigating the intricacies of planning a safari, from selecting the right destinations to arranging accommodations and transportation, can be overwhelming, especially for those unfamiliar with the region. A knowledgeable African safari expert can offer personalized recommendations tailored to the family’s preferences, while ensuring safety and comfort for all is a top priority. Moreover, they can often leverage their industry connections to secure exclusive deals, upgrades, and insider access, enhancing the overall value of the trip.

Choose the Right Safari Lodge for Your Family: Beyond merely providing accommodation, the right lodge can serve as a hub for adventure, education, and relaxation amidst the wilderness. A well-chosen lodge will offer activities suitable for various age groups, as well as amenities and services tailored to families, such as childcare facilities and kid-friendly meals, can significantly enhance comfort and convenience during the trip. The location and surroundings of the lodge also play a pivotal role, offering opportunities for wildlife encounters and immersive nature experiences.

I would suggest another consideration: ask what wildlife you are likely to see at the lodge, and if you have particular interest, choose accordingly.

Six Family-Friendly Safari Lodges

As a mother of two, Maija’s favorite kid-friendly safari combines classic game viewing in malaria-free destinations with family beach villas on tropical beaches. Here are her favor-

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GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Planning a Family Safari in Africa? Go2Africa Expert Shares Her Tips

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ite child-friendly safari lodges for an African safari with kids:

Cheetah Plains, South Africa: At  Cheetah Plains in Sabi Sand, South Africa, game drives and interpretive walks with expert guides and trackers facilitate connection to the wild, fostering a love and appreciation for nature. Activities from scavenger hunts, tracking, baking and crafts keep young minds entertained, while adults can indulge in tastings and pairings, wellness treatments or simply relax. A private electric safari vehicle allows you to travel solely with your group on your own schedule. Family-friendly villas are designed with thoughtful features like inter-leading suites and entertainment lounges equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. Cheetah Plains is one of the only safari camps to allow children of all ages on game drives.

Jabali Private House, Ruaha National Park, Tanzania: Designed with families in mind, Jabali Ridge offers eight spacious suites seamlessly integrated among colossal granite boulders, providing an exclusive and remote atmosphere. Tailored safaris with morning and afternoon game drives, walking safaris, and kid-friendly photographic safaris are available upon request.

The Elephant Camp, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: Traditional safari ambiance meets eco-conscious luxury in one of the most breathtaking locations on earth:  Elephant Camp in Victoria Falls. “Meet the Elephant” gives guests the opportunity to unobtrusively interact with some of the biggest personalities in Africa.

Chiawa Camp, Zambia: Chiawa Camp, on the banks of the Zambezi River in the heart of the Lower Zambezi National Park, is a perfect family retreat for nature lovers. Families can embark on game drives (including enchanting night drives), guided walks, and river

cruises. The camp’s family-friendly tents feature indoor and outdoor showers. Chiawa Camp also offers swimming pool, open-air gym, and diverse safari experiences.

Somalisa Acacia, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe: At  Somalisa Acacia, families gather on the dining and relaxation deck overlooking a busy watering hole, and can sight kudu, cheetah, and wild dogs on game drives, and enjoy superior lodging in the intimate and luxurious safari camp. Ngwana Club (meaning “explorer” in Tswana), offers entertainment for kids during downtime: giving kids a chance to see conservation efforts in nearby villages, roam safe nature trails with trained staff, as well as enjoy boating, pizza-making, and jewelry crafting.

The Retreats, Tanzania: The Retreats at Sayari and Namiri  are ideal for multigenerational and small groups, providing a private guide and vehicle, host, and dedicated chef who prepares special kids meals. Sayari Retreats, open June to March, and Namiri Plains Retreats opened year-round, share a pool, lounge and spacious deck with a sunken fire pit from which to enjoy expansive views across the Serengeti. Sayari offers walking safaris, hot air balloon safaris and cultural visits; guests are in the premier location to view thousands of wildebeest crash across the Mara River as part of their Great Migration from July to November. Each property offers two en suite double bedrooms (additional beds can be added for children over five). Before Namiri Plains was built, these grasslands were closed for 20 years to allow the cheetah population to be restored. Guests can take part in game drives, walking safaris, and cheetah research and each group will have a private guide and safari vehicle allowing for flexibility and exclusivity in the experience.

For additional suggestions on the best places for a family safari with Go2Africa (go2africa.com) explore  here (https://

www.go2africa.com/african-travel-blog/ multi-generational-luxury-lodges).

Five Family Friendly Safari Destinations to Visit in 2025

Personally vetted and selected, Go2Africa shares Managing Director Maija de Rijk-Uys’ Top 5 Bucket List Places for Family Travel in Africa.

Tanzania’s Rubondo Island: Rubondo Island Camp is a private island paradise. Nestled within a national park it is affectionately known as “Noah’s Ark” due to its astounding natural beauty and diversity. The island’s ecosystem includes giraffes, elephants, rhinos, and hippos, which can be viewed on thrilling game drives in private Land Rovers. While guided chimpanzee trekking is available for older teens and adults, younger children will delight in game drives, catch-and-release fishing, sunset cruises, and guided nature walks. Fishing enthusiasts can try to catch the famed Nile perch from a boat or the beach.

Namibia’s Skeleton Coast:  One of Africa’s most unusual lodges, Shipwreck Lodge is the only lodge situated in the soul-stirring Skeleton Coast National Park, and the ideal place to stay to explore one of Africa’s last true wilderness areas. Nature drives in search of brown-hyena spoors provide educational opportunities for the kids to learn about the area’s desert elephants, giraffes, lions, and baboons. With stunning beaches and dunes on your doorstep providing endless opportunities for exploration, visitors enjoy leisurely walks to the ocean, while those seeking excitement should try quad biking on the untouched dunes. A visit to the Mowe Bay seal colony is a family favorite. The journey includes stops at the historic Karimona and Suiderkus shipwrecks. Keeping an eye out for intriguing skeletons and bones scattered along the way. adds an extra layer of adventure and discovery to your family safari.

Marataba Safari Lodge in South Africa: Marataba Safari Lodge is nestled

in the stunning Waterberg Mountains. Marataba is malaria-free, providing a safe and serene environment, making it a perfect alternative to other popular safari destinations like Kruger National Park, especially for families with young children or multi-generational groups. The family-tented suite features a spacious main suite and a room with bunk beds that kids enjoy.  The Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure Safari Club is a hit with children aged 5-11, offering activities like exploring the Eco Garden, animal tracking, bush camping and movie nights under the stars. A family favorite is the water safari on Marataba’s Matlabas River aboard the boat Miss Mara, especially magical during an African sunset.  Ol Pejeta, Kenya:  Asilia Africa’s  Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, located on the banks of Kenya’s Ewaso Nyiro River in the Laikipia region offers breathtaking views of Mount Kenya and a thriving wildlife population. Ol Pejeta Conservancy is home to the last remaining northern white rhinos. Ol Pejeta Bush Camp welcomes children over 5 years old and offers a variety of child-friendly activities. Early morning game drives and bush breakfasts provide a perfect start to the day, while night drives offer a chance to spot elusive creatures like aardvarks, bat-eared foxes, and leopards. The Ol Pejeta Conservancy rangers organize the ‘Running the Wild’ experience every Wednesday morning - where guests get to run alongside the rangers, followed by coffee and conversations about the reserve’s conservation efforts. Families can visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only place in Kenya to see these endangered chimps.

More information: Go2Africa, 1-866438-8677, go2africa.com.

© 2024 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear. com

BY CHARLYN FARGO

A lot of what we do is routine, isn’t it? We typically get up about the same time and go to bed around the same time from day to day. We often buy the same foods at the grocery store and cook the same meals over a several-week period.

Fall is a great time to start a new healthy eating routine and try some new healthy recipes. It’s never too late to start. Studies show that healthy eating can lower your risk of health problems, including overweight and obesity, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and even some cancers. Remember there’s no one right way

in this journey toward healthier eating. Start with a simple change each day, such as adding a fruit or vegetable to a dinner meal or drinking water instead of drinks that contain sugar. Small steps can add up quickly.

A few of those steps could be to choose foods with less added sugar, saturated fat and/or sodium. Another step could be cooking a healthy dinner just once a week or batch cooking on the weekends to make eating at home easier.

Here are some tips to help you choose a wider variety of foods:

No. 1: Add whole fruits to your grocery

cart -- apples, berries, grapefruit, mango and bananas.

No. 2: Try a few new veggies, like roasted broccoli, sweet potatoes, okra and Brussels sprouts; add spinach, peppers and jicama to a salad.

No. 3: Think whole grains -- brown rice, millet, overnight oatmeal, bulgur and whole-wheat bread. Try adding barley or farro to slow-cooker vegetable soup.

No. 4: Taste a new lean protein -- a different kind of fish or a different cut of meat, such as flank steak. Go for chicken thighs instead of chicken breast. Or go meatless

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BY CLAIRE LYNCH

Chalking it all up to serendipity

This year marks the 85th anniversary of the classic film “The Wizard of Oz.” Perhaps there was a little serendipity involved when someone at MGM Studios got the idea to take L. Frank Baum’s 1900 children’s fantasy novel “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” and make it into a movie. Maybe that executive sensed that audiences around the world would come to love that film.

There was also a little serendipity involved when Dorothy, that determined girl from Kansas, finally met the Wizard. Serendipity is often defined as the occurrence and development of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way. Some people say, “It was a fortunate stroke of serendipity” and most people assume that whatever just happened can be chalked up to good luck.

I contend that serendipity is even more than good luck, something happens when all of the stars seem to align and things turn out so well. The word “serendipity” is so catchy that it’s the title of several novels and nonfiction books.

“Serendipity: A Novel” came out in 2009 and on its pages, writer Louise Shaffer describes the lives of three generations of Italian American women in this novel that has lots of surprises, secrets and serendipity.

And author Gregory V. Diehl published a non-fiction book called “Serendipity: The Art of Happy Accidents.” When I googled serendipity for a clearcut definition, this is what came up: an aptitude for making desirable discoveries by accident.

The meaning of the word, good luck in finding valuable things unintentionally, refers to the fairy tale characters who were always making discoveries through chance. Also, you can thank serendipity if you find a pencil at an empty desk just as you walk into an exam and realize you forgot yours.

Serendipity is an unplanned fortunate discovery. Serendipity is a common occurrence throughout the history of product invention and scientific discovery. Alexander Fleming’s discovery of

penicillin is an example of a serendipity.

The antibiotic penicillin was discovered by Sir Alexander Fleming after returning from a vacation in 1928 to find that a Petri dish containing staphylococcus culture had been infected by a Penicillium mold and no bacteria grew near it. A Scottish physician-scientist, Fleming’s discovery was published in “The British Journal of Experimental Pathology” in 1929. He later said he didn’t invent penicillin, nature did. What he did was make some careful notations of his observations and in short, he discovered the world’s first antibiotic or bacteria killer.

The first use of “serendipity” is attributed to Horace Walpole on January 28, 1754. In a letter he wrote to his friend Horace Mann, Walpole explained an unexpected discovery he had made about a lost painting of Bianca Cappello by Giorgio Vasari by reference to a Persian fairy tale, “The Three Princes of Serendip.” The princes, he told his friend, were “always making discoveries, by accidents and sagacity, of things which they were not in quest of.” The heroes had a gift that was hard to explain.

I think these days the word means “unexpected discovery” or “fortunate chance.”

Over the years I’ve noticed that lots of things are nicknamed “serendipity.” Walking along a pier recently, I saw a boat that hailed from Pensacola FL called the Serendipity and smiled to myself. I think that’s a cute name.

I’ve heard of stores and restaurants that are named Serendipity and there was a movie by that name that came out in 2001. Starring John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale, the romantic comedy film is about coincidence, fate and a little bit of serendipity. The plot?

Jonathan Trager and Sara Thomas met while shopping for gloves in New York. Though buying for their girlfriend and boyfriend, the magic was right and a night of Christmas shopping turned into romance. Jonathan wanted to explore things further but Sara wasn’t sure their love was meant to be. They decided to test fate by splitting up and seeing if des-

tiny brought them back together. In time they lost touch and both are engaged to be married.

They’ve been thinking of each other and they want a chance for fate to reunite them. Jonathan asks his best man to track down the woman he can’t forget starting at the store where they met. Sara asks her musician fiancé for a break before the wedding and she flies from California to New York with her best friend hoping destiny will bring her soulmate back.

In a series of near-misses and confusing events the two almost meet a number of times but as is often the case, fate will have the final word on whether or not it’s meant to be.

Not all instances of serendipity are as dramatic as the above-mentioned movie but sometimes it is the right combination of things that makes for a serendipitous connection. I remembered the first time I heard the duet that Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville released in 1989. Titled, “Don’t Know Much,” it is the perfect blend of voices, melodies and instruments and I thought it must

have been serendipity that brought them together.

I had a summertime soiree and got lucky when the weather was perfect, the people arrived on time, the food turned out great and many of the guests told stories that were delightfully entertaining.

My friend, Dave, and his wife, Annie, had just returned from a camping trip with their three kids and they told some funny stories. Their trip became an adventure when a heavy rainstorm hit, their tents collapsed and some Boy Scouts came along who loaned them two tents and assembled them. Dave was embarrassed about having to depend on the young Boy Scouts but Annie laughed and said they did the job in half the time it would have taken them.

Many times the best laid plans don’t turn out as well as we would like them to but other times, things come together in a perfect way.

Maybe the word serendipity sounds a bit corny in this day and age of new media, electronic writing and reading but I think there is still a place for serendipity.

BY TOM MARGENAU

Myths About Benefits for Spouses

As I’ve pointed out over and over again in this column, there are thousands of myths about Social Security benefits. Those myths are usually started online, but then they get picked up by uninformed people and spread from one nattering novice to another. I couldn’t squeeze a thousand myths into a book, but I have written one called “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.” I recommend you get it at Amazon.com or other booksellers and read it.

But in today’s column, I’m just going to concentrate on myths about benefits for spouses. And by “spouses,” I almost always mean women -- because 95% of all spousal benefits are paid to women. But if you happen to be in a marriage where the wife is the primary breadwinner, meaning the husband might potentially be due spousal benefits on his wife’s Social Security account, then you should know that the same rules apply to a dependent husband.

Q: After reading your article entitled, “here are No Social Security Marriage Penalties,” I have a question. I have been a pastor for 40 years. Many widows have told me that they are not going to remarry because they’ve heard their Social Security benefits will be reduced or eliminated. That sounds a lot like a marriage penalty to me. In too many cases, these women have chosen to cohabit with their new “boyfriend.” Some of them have asked me to perform a wedding ceremony, but they refuse to get a marriage license because they don’t want the government to know. Isn’t this a marriage penalty?

A: These women you have talked to have been duped by myths and rumors. The law says that a widow who remarries after age 60 will not lose the benefits from her first husband. And since age 60 is the earliest a woman can usually get widow’s benefits, that essentially means that any widow who remarries will never lose any of her former husband’s Social Security benefits.

And just FYI: Many widows are getting their own Social Security benefits, and a new marriage will never end her entitlement to her own benefits.

Q: I am 62. My husband is 57. I was a homemaker most of my life and have no Social Security record. Someone told me I won’t get any of his Social Security until he starts drawing benefits himself. Is this true? I hope it’s one of the myths you keep writing about!

A: I’m afraid that’s not a myth. You made the same mistake my wife did: You married a younger man! And the rules say you can’t collect on his Social Security account until he signs up for his own benefits.

Q: My husband and I are in our 70s. He started his benefits at age 66. I never worked outside the home, so I get spousal benefits on his record, which

I took when I was 62. He gets $2,800 per month, and I get just a little more than $900. But according to all of my friends, I am being paid incorrectly. I am supposed to get half of his benefits, so I should be getting $1,400. How do I fix this?

A: There is nothing to fix. And I can tell you from 50 years of experience that “friends” are pretty good at spreading myths, so they are a bad source of Social Security information.

Anyway, you would be getting 50% of your husband’s benefits if you had waited until your full retirement age to start your spousal benefits. But you said you took them at age 62, and the rate for a woman who does that is more like 35%. You are being paid correctly.

Q: My husband took his Social Security at age 70. He gets $4,200 per month. I took my own benefits at my full retirement age of 66. I get $1,900 per month. I don’t get any extra benefits on his account. But everything I’ve read online says I should be getting a “spousal bump” of $300 to take my total benefits up to $2,100, or half of his benefit. So where is my bump?

A: Sorry, no bump for you. Either you were misled by something you saw online or you misread it. A spouse’s benefit is based on her husband’s full retirement age rate, not on his augmented benefit amount if he waited until age 70 to file.

If he is getting $4,200 per month, I’m guessing his full retirement age benefit is about $3,200. Half of that is $1,600, and you’re already getting more than that in your own retirement benefits.

So again, no spousal bump -- at least while he is alive. If he dies before you do, your widow’s rate is based on his full age 70 benefit rate. If, God forbid, he died tomorrow, you’d keep getting your $1,900 retirement check, and then you’d get an extra $2,300 in widow’s benefits to take you up to his $4,200 level.

What’s the takeaway? A wife doesn’t share in her husband’s augmented benefits. But a widow does.

Q: I am 62 years old and got divorced about a year ago. I tried to claim benefits on my ex-husband’s record and was told I have to be divorced for two years before I can collect. But I have a friend who also is recently divorced, and she was able to get her ex’s Social Security. What’s going on?

A: My educated guess is your friend’s ex is already getting Social Security benefits. In that case, the two-year rule doesn’t apply. But a divorcee can claim spousal benefits even if her ex (who is at least age 62) hasn’t filed for benefits yet. If your ex is at least 62 but hasn’t applied for his own Social Security yet, the law imposes that two-year waiting period. Why? I’m guessing Congress wanted to make sure disgruntled wives don’t dump a guy just to get his Social Security.

If you have a Social Security question,

Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “Social Security -Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100

Facts.” You can find the books at Amazon. com or other book outlets. Or you can send him an email at thomas.margenau@comcast.net.

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

When you observe the current market on Long Island, it’s quite surreal that the housing market still has more than an adequate demand for purchasing. Prices haven’t as of yet, taken any hits in the reduction in pricing. The demand is still strong enough to prevent this from occurring. Bidding wars are sporadically still happening. Inventory still historically low (2.7 months housing supply). Unless there is a radical reduction in demand prices will still be strong.

It is possible that the upcoming election in November could have some kind of effect, but no one really knows or can predict for sure what the eventual outcome will be. What is happening today may be a once in a lifetime occurrence. Developers cannot even catch up with the demand because we are currently deficient in approximately six million homes. Moreover, we need at least an additional two million homes each year just to satisfy demand. However, with the current layoffs occuring from the larger companies, and continued reduction in our workforce, this may cause an increase in foreclosures as well as those who are smart enough to consider selling before the envitable might occur.

The following graph courtesy of our local MLS shows the average increase in prices of properties sold year over year in Nassau County.

Statistics Don’t Lie

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

It is quite obvious that are local market is still in a strong position. The number one reason is the extreme deficiency in inventory and the still robust demand for homes in Long Island. Another factor that comes into play are those babyboomers who are staying in the their homes much longer up to 14 years as opposed to 9 years, prior to the pandemic (NAR statistics 2024).

Here is the breakdown for residential, condos and coops, showing the increases within each category year over year.

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Here is another graph showing the average sold properties in Nassau County over from 2022-2024. The draw and desire to continue to live on Long Island with its various multitudes of activities and entertainment venues is unfortunately only for those who have the income and finances to afford to be here.

How and when prices might level off will depend on many factors and prognosticaing what those might be in the future is a real tough call. Job layoffs and loss of businesses might be one factor that will level the playing field for those who still want to purchase.

Lowering interest rates will potentially increase inflation causing Jerome Powell’s 2% goal to be a bit more elusive in gaining that number. Also, if more currency is added to the economy that will cause greater inflation as more people continue to spend. Credit card debt is still increase every month. Somewhere along the line some will stop paying their bills and their mortgages that will have become unaffordable due to loss of employment and other factors.

These events will become unten-

able to those whose finances have become dimished. Foreclosures are still currently lower by 20% from2023. However, this could change over the next 2-3 years.

While everything appears rosey, housing prices up, stock market at all time highs. Looking back in 1926, everything also looked amazingly healthy (some will rememnber the Roaring Twenties). Then the stock market crash of 1929. So my opinion is that one must be as bullet proof as possible when and if there is a down turn in our economy.

Keep your finances tight. Don’t overspend. Pay off credit card debt. Keep at least -12 months of available funds in the bank. Be as prudent and to some extent as conservative as possible with your spending habits so as economic environment changes you and your family will be in a stronger position to weather whatever happens in the future.

I truly hope I am wrong in what I believe might happen, but the future will dictate the answer.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 42+ years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned designations as a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (G.R.I.) and also as a Certified International Property Specialist (C.I.P.S.) and has earned his National Association of Realtors “Green Industry designation for eco-friendly low carbon footprint construction with 3-D printed foundations, Solar panels, Geo-thermal HVAC/Heat Pumps).

He will also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and his Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.

He will provide you with “free” regular updates of what has gone under contract (pending), been sold (closed) and those homes that have been withdrawn/released or expired (W/R) and all new listings of homes, HOA, Townhomes, Condos, and Coops in your town or go to https://WWW. Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search on your own. For a “FREE” no obligation 15 minute consultation, as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any obligation or “strings” attached call him at (516) 647-4289. Save his My New Electronic signature/Bio/Reviews to save to your contacts: https://onetapconnect.com/turnkeyrealestate-philraices

Grocery Shopping Mistakes That Are Eating a Hole in Your Budget

BY MARY HUNT

Inflation is hitting Americans hard these days. Rent, gas and utilities are all more expensive, and rising grocery bills aren’t helping matters. Increased costs and supply chain shortages have pushed prices up, with food prices climbing around 11% recently -- though some folks have seen even steeper increases. Sticking to a reasonable grocery budget has become a real uphill battle.

Times are tough, my friends. It’s time to rethink those habits that are draining our wallets and pushing many into debt. Small changes in how you shop can definitely help turn the tide for your personal economy.

GOING IN WITHOUT A WRITTEN PLAN

Ever come home from grocery shopping only to realize there’s nothing for dinner? Been there! To avoid this, make a game plan before you head out. Spend a few minutes planning your meals and snacks, and focus on budget-friendly staples like pasta, beans, rice and canned goods. Skip this step, and you might end up with a cart full of impulse buys that won’t get you through the week.

NOT CHECKING OUT WEEKLY GROCERY FLYERS

Most grocery stores send out weekly ads by mail or email, and you can also get the scoop on sales by downloading your supermarket’s app. Use these tools when planning your meals and making your grocery list. The best part? You don’t need coupons for these deals, so it’s an easy way to build your grocery list around items that are actually on sale! That way, saving big every week becomes a routine, not a chore.

NOT KNOWING WHAT YOU HAVE ALREADY

Before you even think about heading to the grocery store, take a quick inventory of your freezer and pantry. Got a bag of chicken nuggets hiding in there?

Maybe a few hot dogs or stash of frozen meat -- why not thaw it out and put it to good use? Planning your meals around what you’ve already got is a smart move. Otherwise, you might find yourself at the store, brain on autopilot, buying stuff you definitely don’t need because you forgot what’s sitting at home. Trust me, your wallet will thank you.

SHOWING UP HUNGRY

Grocery shopping on an empty stomach? That’s a recipe for disaster. The aroma of freshly baked bread, those irresistible treats and the temptation to grab a snack for the drive home can quickly derail your grocery plans. Everything that looks tasty ends up in your cart. To avoid this, try to shop on a full stomach. If you can’t avoid it, head for the bakery first. Get a cookie, enjoy it to the fullest, then get on with the task at hand. It’ll be a lot easier to stick to your list, grab what you need, and get out without hunger taking over.

PAYING THE REGULAR PRICE

Everything on your grocery list will go on sale within the next three months. That’s how supermarkets work -- following a 12-week rotation for sales and discounts. So if you spot a great deal on your favorite cereal or pasta, it’ll likely come around again in about three months. Use this pattern to plan your shopping trips and stock up when prices are lowest. Make it a rule to only buy items that are genuinely on sale, not those “specials” that trick you into thinking you’re saving. It might take a bit of adjustment, but sticking to this rule could consistently cut your grocery bill by 25% or more.

NOT GETTING THAT SALE PRICE AT CHECKOUT

So you cruise through the checkout, feeling pretty good about nabbing only sale items -- until everything rings up at full price. What’s the deal? Well, turns out you’re not a rewards member at that store. Joining your supermarket’s

rewards program is free and unlocks members-only perks like buy one, get one half-off deals and other discounts. You can usually sign up in-store, online or straight from your phone, so really, there’s no excuse not to. Not every grocery store has a rewards program, but if they do, it’s a no-brainer.

SNUBBING GENERIC OPTIONS

You know how stores love to have their own brand of stuff, right? It’s basically their version of the name-brand goods (often the exact same thing, just with a different label) but at a price that doesn’t make you want to cry. Instead of automatically reaching for that fancy label, try the generic brand. Your wallet won’t even know the difference -- but it’ll definitely thank you.

BUYING ORGANIC PRODUCE THAT’S ALREADY LOW IN PESTICIDES

Nobody’s thrilled about the idea of pesticides on their produce, but some fruits and veggies get sprayed way more than others. Each year, the Environmental Working Group releases a “Dirty Dozen” list, showing which produce has the highest pesticide residues. They also put out the “Clean Fifteen,” listing the fruits and veggies with the least amount of pesticides. So while organic might seem like

Healthy Eating Habits

Continued from page 2

with beans, lentils, nuts or seeds.

No. 5: Add low-fat or fat-free dairy -milk, yogurt, cheese, lactose-free dairy, soy milk or soy yogurt.

No. 6: Swap oils for butter -- olive oil, avocado oil, walnut oil. Try making a homemade salad dressing with a different oil or swap yogurt for mayo. Avocado

toast sprinkled with “everything bagel” seasoning makes a great breakfast.

Q and A

Q: What is manchego cheese and how do you use it? I recently saw a recipe that called for it.

A: Like cheddar, manchego is an uncooked, pressed-curd cheese. It’s made using the tangy milk of the manchega sheep in their native provinces just south

of Madrid that make up the region of Spain called La Mancha. It has an intense, zesty taste and a crumbly texture that’s rich, full and slightly salty at the finish. It’s an ideal table cheese served with olives, sun-dried tomatoes and crusty bread or as part of a cheese board with figs and plums. It melts well and can be used as a substitute for mozzarella. It’s also wonderful in dishes like grilled cheese and sprinkled over tacos.

the way to go, you don’t have to splurge on it for all produce. Keeping these lists handy while you shop can help you save some cash without sacrificing your health.

PASSING UP THE DOLLAR STORE

The supermarket might seem like the go-to for all your household essentials, but where you shop could be quietly draining your wallet. For things like cleaning supplies and paper goods, hit up your local dollar store instead. Just be sure you know your prices -- otherwise, you might end up paying more than you bargained for.

Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, “Ask Mary.” This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “DebtProof Living.”

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian with SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, Illinois, and the current president of the Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. For comments or questions, contact her at charfarg@aol.com or follow her on Twitter @NutritionRD. .

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of September 1-7, 2024

We’ve spent the entire summer without seeing a bright planet grace our early evening sky, but that has all changed!

Right now we can welcome back the most dazzling world of our solar system: Venus. As September progresses, it will appear higher in the western sky at dusk and, as bright as it now appears, it will become twice as bright by February when it swings closer to the Earth.

Now that Venus has returned to our evening sky, the number of UFO reports will surely rise -- not by anyone reading this column, I hope! But you may encounter some in your interactions with other, less-experienced skywatchers.

One of the most common misconceptions is that the brilliant light of Venus is an approaching aircraft with its landing light aimed in our direction. If you live near a major airport and aren’t familiar with the night sky, it’s certainly an easy mistake to make. I fell for this once myself!

Another common explanation I’ve heard is that it’s the International Space Station. While we can occasionally see ISS appear as bright as Venus, keep in mind that this satellite orbits the Earth at 17,000 mph and appears to

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

It took me many years of schlepping bags of heavy groceries from the market to my house before I realized I was the only one in my neighborhood doing it. Most of the other suburban shoppers had already realized what Domino’s Pizza learned years ago: If it can be delivered, deliver it.

Newly wise to the ways of grocery procurement, I downloaded an app that would allow me to pick out all my groceries online and then choose a delivery window for their arrival. I was thrilled to find I could get everything from kumquats to shish kebabs delivered that day, to my door, without me having to ever leave the house.

It seemed very straightforward, and as I checked off the various produce I wanted, I clicked on a picture of a bunch of bananas and selected the box for “1.”

STARGAZERS

Venus and the Moon

drift smoothly across our sky. Venus doesn’t.

I’m most puzzled, however, when I see someone point toward Venus and declare that it’s the North Star. I guess the fact that it lies in the west doesn’t bother them.

Now that Venus has returned to the evening sky, you’ll be hearing some of these misconceptions, so be patient. Try to explain to folks what they’re seeing; you’ll find that this is a tremendously rewarding way of spending one’s time under the stars.

As it does every month, the crescent moon orbits the Earth and passes by this planet. On Sept. 4, look for it just to the west of Venus shortly after sunset.

Try also to spot the bright star Spica (which appears rather faint in the light of dusk), above and to the left of Venus. You can use Venus and Spica to predict where the moon will appear over the next two nights. On Sept. 5, look for the moon between Venus and Spica, and on Sept. 6 just to the east of Spica.

When the moon and Venus meet on Sept. 4, be sure to check out this pair with binoculars. If you’re like I am, you’ll enjoy seeing the faint disk of the full moon alongside its bright crescent. This ghostly glow is the result of sunlight reflected off the Earth back onto the dark side of the moon and was first explained by the famous 15th-century

Italian artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci.

He recognized that when the moon appears as a crescent in our sky, a hypothetical lunar astronomer would see a nearly full Earth in the lunar sky. And, just as a bright moon illuminates the dark land on Earth, a bright Earth would illuminate the moon’s darkness

even more. Today we call this phenomenon “Earthshine.”

I’ve already got my calendar marked; seeing Venus and the moon together is one sight I never get tired of!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

Venus appears in the late-summer sky this week.

LOST IN SUBURBIA

Playing Second Banana

Two hours later, as I unpacked the groceries, I looked through the bags and found one banana.

One. Just one. One lone banana.

Shaking my head, I went back and checked my order. Next to the picture of a bunch of bananas, there was the number “1.”

Annoyed that my order was incomplete, I called customer service.

“Hi, this is Tracy Beckerman. I just ordered groceries from you guys and I’m missing part of my order.”

“What item is missing?” asked a woman with a cheerful voice.

“I ordered a bunch of bananas and I only got one.”

“Just one banana?” she said.

“Yes, just one.”

“OK, ma’am, let me check that order.”

A moment went by, then she returned

to the phone.

“You only ordered one banana, ma’am.”

“No, I ordered a bunch of bananas,” I protested.

“When you selected one, it was for one banana. Not one bunch of bananas,” she explained slowly, as though I were somehow not only banana-challenged but a banana idiot as well.

“But there was a picture of a bunch of bananas,” I said.

“Yes, that’s to show you the bananas in their natural state.”

“What is this, a National Geographic special?” I said. “It’s misleading.”

“Well, ma’am, we’ve never had any other complaints. Most people understand when they select one banana, they get one banana. Would you like to order more bananas?”

I made a face at the phone. I was pret-

ty sure I had left my mortal existence and was trapped in some kind of banana purgatory.

“OK, fine,” I said. “I want five more bananas.” I wondered if I was indeed ordering five bananas or if she was mistaken and an entire banana tree was going to be delivered to my house.

“OK, you’re all set,” she said. “Is there anything else you’d like?”

“Yes. I’d like to order one grape,” I said.

“You mean one bunch of grapes?”

“No. Just one grape,” I said. “But please send it in its natural state.”

Tracy Beckerman is the author of the Amazon Bestseller, “Barking at the Moon: A Story of Life, Love, and Kibble,” available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble online! You can visit her at www. tracybeckerman.com.

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

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EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

CUSTODIAL POSITION

AVAILABLE FULL TIME

A local Garden City church is seeking a full-time custodian. Some evening hours are required. For more information, please call the Business Office at 516-746-1700.

GARDEN CITY LAW FIRM

Secretary/Receptionist

Law Firm located at 600 Old Country Rd is looking for a secretary/receptionist. Full or Part Time, Health Insurance and 401K available. Phones, Word, Adobe Acrobat and billing attorney time. Will train on Clio billing program.

Starting at $25 per hour. Higher pay for prior law firm experience.

Call for details : La Reddola, Lester and Associates: 516-745-1951

Contact by email: rjl@llalawfirm.com

MUSICAL THEATRE

TEACHER

Broadway Bound Dance Center of Garden City is seeking a talented Musical Theatre teacher to join our team!

If you have a passion for teaching singing and acting, we would love to hear from you. Hours are 4pm-7pm Fridays. September through June. If you’re enthusiastic about inspiring young performers and have a background in musical theatre, please contact us: 516-616-1601 to apply. We look forward to hearing from you!

SITUATION WANTED

CERTIFIED HOME HEALTH

AIDE with over 20 years experience in caregiving for the elderly is seeking employment. Available Monday Friday References available upon request.

Contact Olive: 917-714-7789 for more information. All inquiries welcome.

Antiques-FurnitureJewelry-Silver-MirrorsLamps-Artwork Come to Consign & Stay to Shop Visit.... Our Shop 109 Eleventh St. Garden City Mon-Fri 10-4 (Wed till 6) Saturday 12-4

EMPLOYMENT

SITUATION WANTED

COMPANION AVAILABLE

Mature female seeking to provide conversation, company, social and emotional support and light housekeeping. Live in or live out.

Available 9-5 Monday thru Friday or on weekends. Contact Gloria: 516-559-2548

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANTIQUE LOVERS TAKE NOTE! BRIMFIELD IS HERE ALL SHOWS!

September 3-8. New shows open daily!

Visit:www.brimfieldantiqueweek.com

2025 dates: May 13-18, July 8-13, September 2-7

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Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-855-399-2719

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Shop Our Online Store ATStewartExchange.org Items to Consign?

Email photos (with sizing info) to: store@atstewartexchange.org All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society

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INVITED SALES BY

TRACY JORDAN

Transform your space, maximize your value: Are you looking to add value to your property and enhance its appeal?

Look no further!

At Invited Sales, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet your needs:

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Visit:

InvitedSales.com today to discover how we can help you achieve your property goals! Please Call: 516-279-6378 Or Text Tracy Jordan: 516-567-2960

Estates, Oriental items, Gold, Silver, Costume Jewelry, Dishes, Flatware, Watches, Clothing, Old Photos, Coins, Stamps, Records, Toys, Action Figures, Comics, Art and Furniture.

Immediate Cash Paid

Call George 917-775-3048 or 718-386-1104

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS WANTED

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$Highest$ Ca$h Paid$ All Years /Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct Ca$h.

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GOT AN UNWANTED CAR??? Your car donation to Patriotic Hearts helps veterans find work or start their own business. Fast free pick. Running or not! Call 24/7: 1-888-251-3135.

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

OFFICE SPACE

GARDEN CITY SOUTH

Office Suites Available on Second Floor 4 Room Suite & 2 Room Suite

Ideal Location

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Newly painted

Must see to appreciate!

Contact Owner: 516-538-7474 or 516-538-7476

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JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING We can frame anything! Quality Care & Workmanship Thousands of frames to choose from!!

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SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS! Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277

ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ. Elder Law, Wills & Trusts Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration/Litigation 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122 www.dangelolawassociates. com

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AQUATEC LAWN SPRINKLERS

SYSTEM TURN ONS

Backflow Device Tests Free Estimates Installation Service/Repairs

Joe Barbato 516-775-1199

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CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies

Top Brands at Discount Prices!

Family owned & operated www.madeintheshadensli. com

516-426-2890

MASONRY

All types of stonework Pavers, Retaining Walls, Belgium Block Patios, Foundations, Seal coating, Concrete and Asphalt driveways, Sidewalks, Steps. Free Estimates

Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000

Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886

PAULIE THE ROOFER STOPPING LEAKS IS MY SPECIALTY! Slate & Tile Specialists

All types of Roofing Local References Licensed & Insured 516-621-3869

HEALTH SERVICES

FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC

Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo

PMHCNS-BC

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager

Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion

Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement

PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams

Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications 516-248-9323

www.familycareconnections.com

901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 FREEDOMCARE. Let your loved ones care for you and get paid! Paid by Medicaid. Choose family or friends as your paid caregiver. Check your eligibility today! Call FreedomCare now! 1-855-385-7556

&

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

PAINTING

Plastering, Taping, Sheetrock

Skim Cutting, Old Wood Refinish, Staining, Wallpaper

Removal & Hanging, Paint Removal, Power Washing, Wood Replacement

JOHN MIGLIACCIO

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Call John anytime:

516-901-9398 (Cell)

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PARTY HELP

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Your Next Party!

Catering and Experienced Professional Services for Assisting with Preparation, Serving and Clean Up Before, During and After Your Party Bartenders Available. Call Kate at 516-248-1545

CLEANING

MARIA’S CLEANING SERVICE

Our excellent cleaning team will get your home or office spotless! Available Monday thru Friday 7am to 6pm Supplies provided if needed Own transportation Excellent references provided CALL 516-849-2026

SERVICES

AFFORDABLE TV & INTER-

NET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-855-399-2803

CLOCK REPAIR SERVICES

Over 40 years experience Servicing Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx & Manhattan. We repair a variety of Grandfather Clocks, Wall Clocks, Mantle Clocks and All Antique Clocks.

Authorized service center for Howard Miller & Ridgeway David & Nuriel Clock Repair 917-608-5883

PEST CONTROL: PROTECT

YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-866-448-8311 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

Email editor@gcnews.com

PHOTOGRAPHER WANTED RIVERHEAD AND EASTERN SUFFOLK COUNTY

Public relations/communications firm is seeking a photographer to cover school district events at schools in Riverhead and other eastern Suffolk County communities. Most assignments are during the school day with some evenings and weekend shoots. $75 per hour (travel time at 50%).

Photography is for pictures to accompany press releases to local papers, in school district newsletters and on school district social media pages. Call or email for details: redelson@zeccmail.com or 516.205.1951. In the subject line of email or if leaving a phone message, indicate Riverhead/Suffolk photographer inquiry.

Mini lemon meringues are tasty little tarts

Mini Lemon Meringue Pies

A lemon meringue pie is the perfect warm weather treat. Full of tangy lemon, bright coloring and loaded with flavor, lemon meringue pie is almost like having sunshine on a plate. Cutting into a lemon meringue pie can sometimes become a messy ordeal, so these “Mini Lemon Meringue Pies” let each person have an individual taste that’s much more manageable. Enjoy this recipe, courtesy of “Jane’s Patisserie Celebrate!” (Sourcebooks) by Jane Dunn.

( Note: The original metric measurements have been converted to imperial measurements (in parentheses) as closely as possible for U.S. bakers. The final recipe results may differ when measuring ingredients according to these two systems.)

Makes 8

Pastry:

350 g (21⁄2 to 3 cups) flour, plus extra for dusting

2 tablespoons icing sugar

200 g (1 cup) chilled unsalted butter, cubed, plus extra for greasing

2 egg yolks

2 tablespoons cold water

Filling:

Zest of 4 lemons

150 ml (2⁄3 cups) lemon juice

1. Grease and dust flour over the insides of eight individual 10-cm (4-inch) loose-bottomed tart tins.

2. In a large bowl, sift the flour and icing sugar and add the butter, egg yolks and cold water. Rub the mixture together with your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs, bring together with your hands and knead in the bowl until smooth.

3. Turn the pastry out onto a lightly floured work surface and roll out until 3 mm (1⁄8 inch) thick. Cut out eight circles of pastry a little larger than the tart tins and press each pastry circle into the bottom and sides of each tin, trimming the edges. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 200° C (375° F). Cover each pastry case with a circle of parchment paper and fill each one with baking beans/ rice. Bake “blind” for 15 minutes.

5. Remove the parchment paper and the beans from each tin and bake for an extra 10 minutes until the pastry is cooked through and turning golden in color. Leave to cool in tins.

6. For the filling, in a large pan, add the lemon zest, lemon juice, butter and sugar and heat, stirring until the mixture has dissolved and is smooth.

7. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and egg yolks together and then add to the pan. Heat the mixture for 7 to 8 minutes until thickened. Add 1 to

100 g (1⁄2 cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature

200 g (1 cup) caster sugar

3 eggs

3 egg yolks

Topping:

185 g (3⁄4 cup) white granulated sugar

65 ml (1⁄4 cup) water

95 g (3 large) egg whites

2 tablespoons of the mixture to each pastry case. For the topping, in a heavy-bottomed pan, add the sugar and water and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon. When the mixture starts to boil, monitor the temperature until it reaches 120 C (240 F), a firm ball stage, with a sugar thermometer. If any sugar splashes up the sides of the pan while boiling, brush the sides with a pastry brush and cold water to stop the mixture crystalizing.

8. Meanwhile, using a clean bowl and whisk, add the egg whites to the bowl and whisk until they start to form stiff peaks. When the sugar syrup has reached temperature, start to slowly trickle it onto the egg whites at the edge of the bowl while continuously whisking. Make sure you do this carefully so that the egg whites stay smooth.

9. Once all the sugar syrup has been added, continue to whisk the mixture fast and at high speed for 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture is smooth and has cooled down. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag and with a piping nozzle of your choice fitted, pipe the eight individual lemon meringue pies.

10. If you have a cook’s blowtorch, carefully toast the edges of each meringue. Otherwise, place the meringues under the grill in the oven to brown slightly. Chill the lemon meringue pies for 1 hour. Remove them from the tins and enjoy.

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS...

Each week,

Litmor Publications publishes the ads of providers in our Classifieds, Professional Guide and Service Directory. A 6-week agreement brings your specialty or service to the attention of the community in a public service format.

LET US BEGIN LISTING YOU IN OUR NEXT ISSUE.

For More Information and Rates, Call Nancy 516.294.8900

Email:

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Include name, daytime phone number, address and email.

Deadline for Professional Guide or Service Directory is Monday, 12 Noon. Deadline for Classified is Tuesday, 1pm

Advertising in the Professional Guide is only open to N.Y.S. Licensed Professionals.

Share your accomplishments with our readership! Put your engagement, wedding, baby announcement, or more in our paper. It's free of charge for subscribers! Email editor@gcnews.com

Free waterfront festival, concert at TOBAY Beach

The Town of Oyster Bay will be holding a Free Waterfront Festival and Outdoor Concert on Sunday, September 8th at TOBAY Beach Marina. This family-fun day will feature marine and outdoor exhibits, a children’s snapper derby, police boat demonstrations, food concessions and a free concert featuring Captain Cool Band with yacht rockin’ hits. The festival will run from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

“The Town is thrilled to offer a free day of family-fun and live music at TOBAY Beach. Bring your family to Waterfront Festival for a great outdoor concert, educational exhibits and foods and drinks as the summer ends,” said Supervisor Saladino. “This free festival

also provides a great opportunity to introduce children to recreational sport of fishing, as all equipment will be provided along with professional assistance and guidance.”

The Town of Oyster Bay Free Waterfront Festival and Concert is presented by Optimum and made possible through the following sponsors; Friendly’s, News12, Long Island Press, K-Joy 98.3, WHLI 1100am, 103.1 The WOLF, Walk 97.5, Go Palm Trees, Surf Shack, The Boat Yard, and the Nassau County Police Department.

For more information about the Waterfront Festival and Free Concert, call (516) 797-4121 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com

Old Time Social at Hicksville Gregory Museum

The Hicksville Gregory Museum will be hosting an “Old Time Social” on Saturday, September 7, from 1 – 4 p.m. Enjoy banjo music, old time games, light refreshments and more.

Tickets are $50 per person. For information about sponsorships please go to the Hicksville Gregory Museum’s Facebook page.

The Hicksville Gregory Museum.

Enjoy Last Days of Summer at Long Island Children's Museum

Another summer of fun is wrapping up at Long Island Children’s Museum. Enjoy a last visit with “Thomas & Friends™: Explore the Rails!” before this popular exhibit moves on to make way for a new exhibit experience, “Block Party with Imagination Playground,” opening September 28. Join LICM to celebrate Grandparents Day and Worldwide Day of Play for plenty of September fun.

FALL FIX UP: Long Island Children’s Museum will be closed Monday, September 9 through Friday, September27, for its Annual Fall Fix-Up. The closure period provides time to make improvements and repairs to exhibits, paint galleries and do deep cleaning following a busy summer of daily visitation.

September Program Calendar

Splish Splash Animal Bath

Sunday, September 1 from 1:30 to 2 p.m.

Join us in the Yellow Studio in the Feasts for Beasts Gallery to learn what goes into the care of LICM's animals. Join our Animal Educator to observe animal bath time.

All ages. Free with Museum admission. Music and Movement

Tuesday, September 3 from 10:30 a.m. (Members Only) and 11:30 a.m.

This weekly workshop capitalizes on children’s innate curiosity about rhythm and sound. Enjoy creative movement exercises and interactive sing-alongs that get little bodies moving to the rhythm.

Ages: 5 and under. Fee: $4 with museum admission, $3 LICM members.

Abundant Apple Trees

Tuesday, September 3 through Friday, September 6 from 2:30 to 4 p.m.

September is the month most apples are at their peak for harvesting! Stop by and make your own amazing apple tree craft to bring home.

All ages. Free with Museum admission. POP Tots

Wednesday, September 4 from 11:30 a.m. – noon

This weekly workshop capitalizes on children’s innate curiosity about rhythm and sound. Enjoy creative movement exercises and interactive sing-alongs that get little bodies moving to the rhythm.

Ages: 5 and under. Fee: $4 with museum admission, $3 LICM members.

Little Learners

Thursday, September 5 from 11:30 to noon

Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. This week: Sensory Dough.

Ages: 2 to 5 years. Fee: $4 with museum admission ($3 LICM members).

All Aboard!

Saturday, September 7 from noon to 2 p.m.

Bring the sounds of Sodor to your home when you stop by to make your very own train whistle. This is a drop-in program; it takes approximately 10 minutes and is yours to keep.

Ages: 3 and up. Free with Museum admission. Celebrate Grandparents Day!

Sunday, September 8 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Come celebrate Grandparents Day with us! To honor the special bond with your grandparent, come

decorate a tea towel to give as a special gift.

This is a drop-in program; it takes approximately 10 minutes and is yours to keep.

Ages: 3 and up. Free with Museum admission.

In the Bag

Saturday, September 28 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Today is Worldwide Day of Play, and LICM is joining the fun as we celebrate play… and all its benefit! Come decorate a goodie bag to fill with curious and inspiring items to keep the play going at home.

This is a drop-in program; it takes approximately 10 minutes and is yours to keep.

Ages: 3 and up. Free with Museum admission. Fascinating Fungi

Sunday, September 29 from noon to 2 p.m.

Did you know that some mushrooms can glow in the dark? There are over 113 species of mushroom that are considered bioluminescent. This occurs due to a chemical reaction and its purpose is to attract bugs to help spread mushroom spores. Stop by to learn about these amazing fungi and make your own glowing mushroom craft to bring home.

Ages: 3 and up. Free with Museum admission.

Traveling Exhibits

Thomas & Friends™: Explore the Rails! (LAST WEEK)

Through Sunday, September 8, 2024

Step onto the Island of Sodor where visitors can climb aboard a large model of Thomas the tank engine, race trains along a giant track, work together to sort and load cargo and maintain engines.

Children engage in a variety of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) challenges from simple sorting and shape identification to more complex engineering obstacles. As they take on STEM challenges and test their abilities, the smiling faces of Thomas, Percy, Victor and others are there to offer encouragement and remind children how “really useful” they all are.

What You’ll Do:

Hop inside Thomas’ cab and explore his inner workings, twisting knobs and lifting levers to see which noises you can trigger.

Explore favorite Island of Sodor destinations including Tidmouth Sheds, Brendam Docks and the Sodor Search & Rescue Station

Investigate and repair Percy’s wheel problem by figuring which rods, wheels and bolts will do the trick.

Help Thomas and his friends solve a variety of challenges, from simple sorting and shape identification to more complex engineering obstacles.

All ages. Free with Museum admission.

Block Party with Imagination Playground

Saturday, September 28 through Sunday, November 3

Get ready to join in an oversized “block” party at LICM!

Stack them, crawl through them or team up to make dream designs come true. These giant, lightweight blocks turn playtime into extraordinary adventures. Construct castles, mazes, fantastical creatures or secret hideaways in this new LICM exhibit experience. Imagination Playground blue blocks provide a blank canvas for children to express their creativity and bring their ideas to life. Giant and lightweight, these blocks encourage hands-on exploration and problem-solving, collaboration and spatial awareness. With their vibrant blue color and varied shapes, they instantly capture the imagination, inviting children to explore endless possibilities.

Opening Day Activity

Create your Castle Saturday, September 28 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Come make a majestic crown fit for royalty. Keep the play going by heading over to Block Party with Imagination Playground to build your dream kingdom! This is a drop-in program, free with admission. It takes approximately ten minutes and is yours to keep. Ages: 3 and up. Free with Museum admission.

Nunley’s Carousel

Friday, September 6 through Sunday, September 8 from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Saturday, September 28 and Sunday, September 29 from 12:30 to 3 p.m.

Nunley’s Carousel will be closed from September 9 -September 25 for Fall Fix-Up.

Ready to take a spin into history on Nunley’s Carousel? Create new family memories to add to this beloved rides’ storied history dating back to 1912.

Climb aboard one of the 41 intricately carved horses, the majestic lion or settle into one of two ornate chariots as you create your own memories aboard this beloved landmark.

Fee: $4/ride ($3 LICM members). Best Value: Pick up a 10-pack pass. Ride tickets are available online or in-person at the LICM Box Office or Carousel Ticket Booth.

All activities will be held at the Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Avenue, Garden City, NY. For the safety of our visitors, Adults are not permitted in the Museum without children; Museum visitors under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Museum admission: $18 for adults and children over 1 year old, $16 for seniors, FREE to museum members and children under 1 year old. Additional fees for theater and special programs may apply. For additional information, contact 516-224-5800.

Hours: (September-June) Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and most school holidays.

Nunley’s Carousel continues to spin memories for a new generation of riders.

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NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU The Bank of New York Mellon fka The Bank of New York successor Trustee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Trustee for the Bear Stearns ALT-A Trust, Mortgage PassThrough Certificates, Series 2005-9, Plaintiff AGAINST Matthew K. Tannenbaum, Sanda Tannenbaum, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 1, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 17, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 20 Sagamore Way South, Jericho, NY 11753. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Jericho, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, SECTION: 12, BLOCK: 577, LOT: 56. Approximate amount of judgment $961,182.49 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #014530/2012. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website (https://ww2.nycourts.gov/Admi n/oca.shtml) and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held "Rain or Shine". For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844) 400-9633. Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01057009-F00 81741

Exhibition features Asian American artists

Joan Kim Suzuki, artist, exhibition curator, and Syosset High School graduate, Class of 2007; Photo by Josiah Lai

The Gift of Remembrance, a group art exhibition featured at the Syosset Public Library, highlights selected local Asian-American artists and their reflections on being Asian-American, raising cultural awareness, multiculturalism, and keeping the history of their ancestors alive for future generations. Among the artists included are teachers, local business owners, high

school students, and women who majored in art and postponed their artistic pursuits for decades before eventually returning to them. Works include photographs, acrylics on canvas, paintings on paper, and tactile art for the visually impaired.

Curator and artist Joan Kim Suzuki said she hopes the exhibition will remind viewers about the importance of remembering their ancestors and of acknowledging the sacrifices their ancestors may have made for them. Her goals are to enlighten those who are searching for their family identities and to spark curiosity in those with forgotten family histories.

In May, Ms. Suzuki curated an exhibition at Huntington Town Hall to mark Asian and Pacific Heritage Month. “This was an amazing experience,” she said. “I had no idea how many Asian-American artists are hiding their work in their basements!” The Gift of Remembrance builds on this discovery. ”Interestingly, many of these artists happened to be women who had studied art many decades ago, but had put their careers on hold for their families,” Ms. Suzuki said.

A digital painting by Joan Kim Suzuki depicting her grandmother’s journey as a refugee in Korea at the close of World War II, circa 1945.

Born in the United States, Ms. Suzuki is the mother of two and a graduate of Syosset High School (Class of 2007) with deep cultural roots in Korea and Japan. After attending Pace University, she settled in South Korea, where she married, started a family, and lived for 11 years. She returned to the United States shortly before the pandemic and began painting in 2020.

Much of her work is inspired by her paternal grandmother

LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU The Bank of New York Mellon fka The Bank of New York successor Trustee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Trustee for the Bear Stearns ALT-A Trust, Mortgage PassThrough Certificates, Series 2005-9, Plaintiff AGAINST Matthew K. Tannenbaum, Sanda Tannenbaum, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 1, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 17, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 20 Sagamore Way South, Jericho, NY 11753. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Jericho, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, SECTION: 12, BLOCK: 577, LOT: 56. Approximate amount of judgment $961,182.49 plus

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Town of Oyster Bay   Zoning Board of Appeals TOWN HALL, AUDREY AVENUE, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK  11771-1592   TELEPHONE:  (516) 624-6232 – FAX:  (516) 624-6149

RITA BYRNE, Chairwoman  –  LOIS SCHMITT, Vice Chairwoman   –  KATHLEEN MULLIGAN REBECCA M. ALESIA –ANDREW MONTELEONE – LISA CICCOLELLA – FLORESTANO GIRARDI

PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Section 246-12 of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the Town Hall Meeting Room, Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on SEPTEMBER 5, 2024, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals:

BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

APPEAL NO. 24-285       JERICHO

CLIFFORD MALDOW:  Variance to allow existing side wood deck having less side yard setback, aggregate side yards and exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance.

S/s/o Bounty Ln., 307.96 ft. W/o Maytime Dr., a/k/a 118 Bounty Lane, Jericho, NY

AUGUST 26, 2024

BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK

and her parents, who immigrated to the United States in the early 1980s. Growing up listening to the stories of her grandmother escaping the atrocities of war, Ms. Suzuki “felt an urgency to somehow etch those wispy memories into stone” when her grandmother’s health started to decline in 2023 at the age 102. Ms. Suzuki continues to draw her grandmother’s stories into paintings and digital art so that she can give them to her children as a legacy.

Some of Ms. Suzuki’s own works are included in the exhibition. Her paintings have been displayed in exhibitions mounted by the Westbury Arts Council and others. She has been featured at numerous “live painting” events, a form of performance art in which artists complete a visual art piece in public; her art has been projected onto public buildings in Patchogue as part of the Museum of Contemporary Art—Long Island Lights event; and she has taught art classes in Brooklyn and Hicksville. The Gift of Remembrance is on view in the Syosset Library Gallery through September. There will be a reception Saturday, September 14, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. All are invited. The program is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, and is administered by the Huntington Arts Council.

Jae

Heungbu’s Swallow by

Won Shim, chalk pastel on pastel card.

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